Success cannot be generalized; too often the word is used as a term referring to financial independence or owning one's own company. Yet the sanitation worker who goes to bed each night with a smile on her face also connotes success in the modern world. I support a multiplicity of success, a diversity of dreams fulfilled. My success, however, definitely includes financial independence and career recognition, but it also includes the clear conscience that comes from knowing that I did it all by and for myself, with confidence and conviction. Like Roark in Rand's book, I got where I am today due to my hard work and not hand-outs. Thus far I have not compromised my beliefs or goals to fit with prevailing norms, just as Roark would not deign to design that which disgusted him or sell out. Like Roark I listen to internal cues and heed not the call to conformity. Though others may scorn Roark and he outwardly fails at his career, Roark is an incontrovertible hero. Had he sold himself to earn a specific title or accolade or to be popular, Roark would have failed miserably.

Accounting might not be a glamorous job but I'm not after glitter and flash; those elements are not a part of my definition of success though they deserve a rightful place in someone else's life. I seek a stoic yet stimulating environment in which to practice my profession to the best of my ability. Yet to do so I will need further education and experience. At USC I intend to unwaveringly pursue...

Failure is not an option because I know that my career choice reflects innate talents in critical thinking and analysis.
Like designing a building demands structure and planning, so too does designing a career path. I am currently in the planning phase of my career, during which I am assessing my talents and preferences, determining which courses to take in college, and seeking professional experience that will help me master the skill sets requisite for success as a CPA. Therefore, I hope to find internship positions within firms that I am interested in the hopes of eventually securing an entry-level position immediately upon graduation. I also need to network with role models in the field, and when I am enrolled at USC I will immediately seek interactions with like-minded yet challenging individuals in a mutually supportive atmosphere.

Along with taking relevant coursework I hope also to participate fully in campus life: through social and athletic activities I can truly flourish as a student at USC. Though I am just taking the first steps toward a successful accounting career I know now that I will contribute to the USC campus environment. My singular set of skills and philosophies will be an asset to the USC community, in which I feel I will flourish and succeed. My definition of success therefore currently includes admission to the university as an accounting major. Thank you for your consideration.